Richard Joseph Gonzales

It is with deepest sorrow that we announce the death of our beloved Richard Joseph Gonzales Jr. Richard "Joey" Gonzales of Lake Jackson, Texas passed away surrounded by his devoted wife and closest family on Saturday, April 29th, 2023. He was 41 years old. He is survived by his beloved wife Amanda Gonzales, father Richard Gonzales, mother Patricia Gonzales, and four sisters, Priscilla Johnson, Carissa Gonzales, Melody Wayman, and Valeria Torfin. He was an uncle to four nieces and two nephews whom he loved dearly. Mia, Miah, Everly, Rylla, Alexander, and Jordan. Richard "Joey", was born on October 17th, 1981 in Bay City, Texas. He was the firstborn of five children and was honored to be his father's "only son." Richard "Joey" grew up in Bay City, TX, most of his childhood where he made many fond memories and friends. As a young boy, he loved to go fishing with his father or camping in New Braunfels with cousins in the summer. He could be seen riding his bike on his dead-end road, playing street football, baseball, or playing amongst his younger sisters in the front yard. Even as a child, Joey cared about people, and would often ask his mom to help feed a friend, find them a spare coat or drive them home so they didn't have to walk alone. He would grow up to live his adolescent and adult life in Lake Jackson, Texas. He attended Brazoswood High School, Brazoswood College, and Next Level Barber Institute. He was an inquisitive, intelligent man who pursued different passions throughout his life. He was a professional truck driver, barber, and welder. He was not limited to these titles alone but was a man of many trades. He was proud of the knowledge and skills he learned from his father and was a true handyman. He worked on home construction, remodels, boats, car engines, tractors, plumbing, and even motorcycles. He had a knack for problem-solving and good common sense. He loved to share his knowledge with the younger generations and teach them to be respectful along with his other skills. He took an active role in the lives of his bonus children, Jalen and Lindsey, always sharing advice on life skills and caring for them like his own children. He shared his passion for his crafts through mentoring others and would do anything for anyone. This wasn't done alone of course; he had his beloved wife Amanda of ten years by his side supporting him through thick and thin. Joey met his dearest wife and best friend at the age of 20 and would go on to be together for over 21 years, recently celebrating ten years of marriage on December 29th. Joey frequently praised his "Panda bear", whom he adored and cherished. He loved to brag about how spoiled he was and how no matter what happened in life, they would always stick together. He was so proud of the beautiful woman he called his wife. He loved how deep their bond of love was and consistently gave his wife immense praise for her beautiful, nurturing qualities and cooking skills. They enjoyed a life of friendship together and overcame much over the years, proving their devotion to each other time and again. The strength of this marriage was fortified by the three cord strands which cannot be quickly broken. (Ecclesiastes 4:12) Richard was a devout Jehovah Witness who leaned on his heavenly father to guide his life and relationships. His wife and he were dedicated to their mission to preach the word and serve God wholeheartedly. Because of this, he would go on to make lifelong friends in his congregation who proved to be "a friend in times of distress for him". (Proverbs 17:17) Richard was never ashamed of God's message and would boldly preach to anyone he met. He loved to read the bible and had an unquenchable thirst for spiritual knowledge. The book of Revelation was his favorite book and he often talked about how he couldn't wait for God's righteous judgment and kingdom to come. He truly looked forward to the beautiful future Jehovah has in store for mankind. He was a man of great faith and maintained his integrity down to the end. Everyone who knew Richard felt his big heart and giving nature. It was his life's joy to help others and care for their needs. He would stay without, to give his best and last, often reassuring his wife that "we will figure it out". He was the friend that would always be there and show up no matter the task or hour. He wouldn't hesitate to share his time and resources to help others. He once drove across the country to leave his sister his 4x4 truck so she would have a safe vehicle to drive in the snow. His selflessness had no limit. He was a real-life giving tree offering rest and solitude in any way he could. Richards' antics were legendary and those who knew him have their own stories to tell. He said what he meant and meant what he said. He never outgrew his Super Nintendo, PlayStation, or gaming with friends in the driveway. He loved the coast and fishing regularly with his father, Uncle Mike, and other family. He was the BEST storyteller, making you laugh with all his animations and passion. We all remember his "Mannnnnnnnn" when he got excited about something! He loved a good Dallas Cowboys or Houston Astros game while cooking for his friends. He loved hosting get-togethers at his home or his famous Madden tournaments. His house never had enough company or gatherings. He loved people and he especially loved time with his family, often traveling the distance for a family bbq or dinner. Joey's home was warm, inviting, and full of love and adoration for life. If he knew you, he loved and cared for you- guaranteed. In his home, he shared his heart with three fur babies who he loved and cared for over the years, Big Daddy Fred, Smelly Shelly, and his favorite pooch Penny Wenny. Any close friends of Joeys knew his hilarious childhood stories and sibling wars, especially his favorite "fork in the back" tale. If you were Joey's friend you were guaranteed three things in his company, a full belly from eating, a sore belly from laughing, and a touched heart from his preaching. Joey was a giving, caring and selfless soul. He shared his passion for his crafts through mentoring others and would do anything for anyone. Smart and stubborn, almost to a fault, Joey was a beautiful person inside and out. His smile was stunning and could light up the whole room. He cared so deeply for the people around him but was especially fond of his dear father. He lived to make him proud and show his love with daily phone calls and sending him gifts and dinners. He was a mama's boy and proud of his mother's unfailing love and support for him. He was especially proud and protective of his sisters and beautiful nieces. He was so kind and passionate. He made an impact on many lives and he will forever be missed in our lives and hearts. We take comfort that Richard was a friend of our God, who though they may pass away, Will never be forsaken. All those asleep who in God’s memory stay, From death he will awaken. Then we’ll come to see all that life can be: Paradise eternally. Until that day, rest peacefully Joey. (Job 13:13-15).

Joey's final arrangements will take place on Saturday, May 13th, 2023 at 1:30 pm at his place of worship: The Kingdom Hall of Jehovah's Witnesses, located at 2030 Brazosport Blvd North, Clute, TX 77531. Per Richards's request and consideration for his wife, only very close family and friends will meet afterward at Richard and Amanda's home for a small private gathering. A Zoom link will be available and posted soon for those unable to attend in person. We thank you all for your continued love and support during this most difficult time and for loving Joey like you did. Please continue to uplift his wife and family in your prayers.